What is it? While the original, innovative Insight hybrid was a streamlined two-door hatchback, this namesake model will be a larger five-door hatchback. It draws clear design inspiration from the Toyota Prius and the Honda FCX Clarity fuel-cell vehicle. Rather than a hybrid application to an existing model, like the Civic hybrid, the Insight was designed specifically as a hybrid.
CR's take: While official details are thin, Honda claims the Insight will use a more cost-effective version of today's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) powertrain, enabling the car to be priced under current hybrids. (The base retail price for the 2009 Civic hybrid is $23,550; the 2009 Prius is $22,000.) Referred to by Honda as a "small car," the new Insight is about 2.5 inches shorter bumper to bumper, one inch narrower, and two inches lower in height than the Prius.
When will it be available? Spring 2009.
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